Loud (Explicit)

7digitalWhat we said:If you’ve been hibernating of late, the first single from Rihanna’s fifth album (and ubiquitous number one smash) ‘Only Girl (In the World)’ found the Bajan beauty bellowing over high-energy trance synths and pumping beats. As mission statements go, it proves a fair representation of Loud: from the stuttering dub, MIA/Beyoncé cross-hybrid of ‘Raining Men’ to the X-rated dance-pop of ‘S&M’, Ms Fenty seems to have the spring back in her step. And having dealt with more than any 22 year-old’s fair share of trauma and heartbreak on last album Rated R, we’re delighted to welcome back Rihanna the party girl, with the Midas touch for pop hits.